August 17, 2010

The exception to the rule

I portray myself as a free speech absolutist. As with all rules, there is an exception to that. The Westboro Baptist freaks need to be told to sit the fuck down and shut the fuck up. Too bad a federal judge disagrees and struck down the Missouri law against picketing at a funeral.

I'm not going to get into the legalities of this because, really, I cannot possibly be objective when it comes to Fred Phelps (Democrat) and his merry band of jackals. I will say, though, that I am very very tired of the legal blackmail in which the Phelps clan engages. What do I mean by that? Well, it's fairly simple. Phelps et al engage in activities which cause normal, decent human beings to want to beat them until all they can do is bleed. But if that takes place, then Phelps et al turns around and sues for the damages. That leaves turning to the courts for assistance but the courts are continuing to rule against those trying to hold Phelps and his ilk to the standards of common decency. Phelps wants the protection of civilization without abiding by the social contract to not be a fucking tool at a funeral. That makes Alex something something.

I do not comprehend why Westboro's actions are not considered harassment. I truly do not understand why those actions are not considered fighting words. Truly, I don't. These protests are nearly the Platonic ideal of provocative speech. Provocation causes a response. I say let them protest and then let those responding to the speech act in the appropriate manner. Until that time comes, tell Westboro to shut up.